Causes and Improvement Methods for Skin Laxity
Jul 06, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wan
Introduction
Skin laxity commonly occurs due to the following reasons:
- Various forms of dieting, long-distance running, or excessive weight loss, all of which can lead to loss of skin elasticity and laxity. It is recommended to lose weight through a combination of exercise and caloric restriction—with emphasis on physical activity—and to aim for gradual, sustainable weight loss.
- Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation generates excessive free radicals within the skin. These free radicals oxidize skin components, accelerating skin aging, resulting in laxity and diminished elasticity.
Many people notice that, despite diligent skincare, their skin still becomes lax. Why does this happen—and how can it be improved? Details follow:
① Natural Aging
After age 25, women experience a gradual decline in collagen production, reduced metabolic activity, and progressive degeneration of the fibrous structures between cells—leading to diminished skin elasticity and subsequent sagging.
Solution: Consume ample fresh fruits, vegetables, and collagen-rich foods to supply natural nutrients that help combat skin aging and laxity. Maintain regular sleep patterns, avoid staying up late, and engage in consistent physical exercise; aerobic activities, in particular, enhance metabolism and facilitate toxin elimination.
② Excessive Weight Loss
Weight loss should be a gradual, sustainable process. Yet many embark on rapid, extreme weight-loss regimens—driven by impulsive desires to “slim down overnight”—resorting to severe calorie restriction or excessive running. While weight may drop quickly, the skin often loses its elasticity and becomes slack.
Solution: Prioritize exercise over strict caloric restriction for weight loss. Aim for slow, steady progress: losing no more than 10 pounds (approximately 4.5 kg) per month is generally safe and allows the body—including the skin—to adapt appropriately.
③ Ultraviolet (UV) Radiation Exposure
Prolonged UV exposure triggers excessive free radical formation within the skin. These free radicals oxidize skin components, accelerating aging, loss of elasticity, and laxity. Chronic, intense sun exposure further induces photodamage and photoaging.
Solution: Apply broad-spectrum, high-SPF sunscreen before going outdoors. Opt for antioxidant-enriched sunscreens to neutralize free radicals and mitigate oxidative damage.
